In the dimly lit working room of Rontenia estate, Karl Reinhard Heydrich Rontenia contemplated the unexpected marriage proposal letter he had received from the Lezette Mortena family. His cold expression betrayed none of his thoughts, but his mind whirred with confusion. Why would the daughter of a powerful noble family seek to marry a prince who had been abandoned and exiled?
Calos, sensing the weight of the situation, ventured, "My lord, are you considering accepting the proposal?"
Karl's gaze remained fixed on the letter, his voice steady. "No, Calos. I have no interest in marriage, and the Lezette Mortena family would gain nothing from an alliance with me."
Calos nodded, understanding his master's sentiment. He watched as Karl penned a reply, his words succinct and unwavering. After finishing the letter, Karl handed it to Calos, who prepared to return it to the Mortena family.
As Calos departed, disappointment settled within him. He had hoped that someone would come into Karl's life to bring light and happiness. Yet, he knew better than to interfere with his master's decisions.
The reply letter reached Rose's hands, and her heart raced as she and Tina eagerly opened it. The words within were cold and final, expressing Karl's lack of interest in marriage and alliances. Rose's heart sank, but she refused to let her determination waver.
"Tina," Rose said with unwavering resolve, "please ask Sebastian to prepare a horse carriage. I'm going to visit Karl in person and speak with him directly."
Tina's eyes widened in shock, her concern evident. "Milady, are you certain? Visiting him without an invitation could be seen as—"
Rose cut her off with a determined smile. "I must do this, Tina. I won't let the story unfold as it did in the books. Love can change destinies, and I believe in my heart that Karl is the one."
Tina hesitated but nodded, realizing the depth of Rose's conviction. "Very well, milady. I will prepare everything as you've requested."
As the horse carriage was readied, Tina's conflicted feelings swirled within her. She understood Rose's determination, yet the path ahead was fraught with uncertainty. Nevertheless, she would support her lady's decision, come what may.
As the carriage set off on the journey to Rontenia estate, Rose's heart beat with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. She was stepping out of her comfort zone, determined to shape her own destiny. The echoes of her modern life merged with the storybook world, creating a narrative that was uniquely hers.
In the cold north, at Rontenia estate, Karl's world was about to be disrupted by an unexpected visitor who refused to conform to the constraints of tradition and status. The wheels of fate were turning, setting the stage for a meeting that would either shatter preconceptions or reinforce the barriers that separated them.
After a long and arduous journey, Rose, Tina, and Sebastian finally arrived at Karl's estate, their nerves on edge as they faced the imposing front gate. Irises, the head maid, greeted them with utmost courtesy and led them to the guest room. Apologizing for Karl's absence, she informed Rose that he was engaged in battle with demons in the high mountains.
"I understand," Rose replied with a gracious smile. "Please convey my gratitude to Duke Karl for his efforts and let him know I am here to speak with him whenever he is available."
Irises nodded and excused herself to make preparations. The guest room was luxurious and warm, a stark contrast to the chilling surroundings outside. Rose settled in, her anticipation mingling with the tension of waiting.
Two days passed, and news finally arrived that Karl had returned, his clothes soaked in blood from his battle with the demons. Irises informed Karl of Rose's presence and their conversation. Calos, standing by Karl's side, couldn't contain his excitement, though he refrained from expressing it openly.
Karl nodded to Irises, his face impassive as he agreed to meet Rose at dinner. After the conversation, he retreated to his room, leaving Calos and Irises to exchange their thoughts on the matter.
Calos couldn't help but blurt out, "Irises, can you believe it? Someone has caught his attention. Lady Rose must be truly remarkable."
Irises smiled knowingly, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Indeed, Calos. The arrival of Lady Rose has stirred something in the Duke. Let us hope it is a change for the better."
As Karl prepared for the dinner, his mind churned with thoughts and emotions he had long suppressed. He couldn't deny the intrigue that Lady Rose's boldness had sparked within him. As he walked through the corridors, he caught glimpses of his bloodstained reflection and sighed inwardly.
The dinner was an elegant affair, the table adorned with exquisite dishes that matched the grandeur of Rontenia estate. Rose's heart raced as she entered the dining room and met Karl's enigmatic gaze. Irises and Calos were present as well, their silent support a comforting presence.
Karl acknowledged Rose with a nod, his demeanor composed yet attentive. "Lady Rose, I apologize for my disheveled appearance. The mountains have proven to be quite challenging lately."
Rose smiled warmly, her eyes filled with genuine understanding. "Duke Karl, I am grateful for your efforts in protecting the kingdom. Please, do not concern yourself with appearances."
As the dinner progressed, Rose and Karl engaged in polite conversation, discussing topics ranging from the kingdom's politics to their shared appreciation for art and culture. Calos observed discreetly, his heart brimming with hope as he witnessed the gradual thawing of Karl's icy exterior.
After dinner, Karl accompanied Rose back to her quarters, the moonlight casting a soft glow upon the courtyard. "Lady Rose," Karl began, his voice softer than before, "I must admit, your audacity in seeking me out has intrigued me. What is it that you wish to discuss?"
Rose met his gaze with unwavering determination. "Duke Karl, I have come here to speak my heart. I believe that love has the power to reshape destinies, and I am here to ask for your consideration."
Karl's eyes held a mixture of surprise and intrigue as he waited for Rose's next words, his carefully constructed walls beginning to crack in the presence of a love he never thought possible.